1996 Honda Accord vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Accord would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1996 Honda Accord. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 371 kg more than 1996 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Accord. (158 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Accord. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Accord | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Honda | Hyundai |
| Model | Accord | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1850 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
